Act 3, First Scene (p. 340 - 346) Summary

The first scene of Act 3 transpires within Segismundo's prison tower. Clarnn sits in his cell bemoaning his fate when he hears the far-off sound of drums, bugles and marching. After a moment several soldiers enter the prison and accost Clarnn, declaring him to be their prince and addressing him as Segismundo. The fool does not make the most of the misunderstanding, however, and the assembled soldiers quickly realize their mistake and subsequently address the real Segismundo. They inform him that they, and roughly half of Poland, have refused Basilio's edict—instead of being ruled by a joined Astolfo and Estrella, they demand their rightful heir in Segismundo. Segismundo is confused and convinced that he must once again be dreaming, though the soldiers assure him this is not the case. Clotaldo then rushes in and...